Recruitment
Recruitment
The five hottest CV tips right now
06 NOVEMBER 2023
How do you write a good CV?
A good CV is short, clear and tailored to the role. Start with a short profile, show results rather than tasks, use the same keywords as the job ad and keep it to one or two pages. Many employers sort CVs with recruitment systems, so a simple layout with clear headings is an advantage.
Seven seconds. That is the average time a recruiter spends looking at a CV. In other words, as a job seeker you have a small window to make a big impression. Here are tips from Oddwork’s recruiters on writing an attractive CV that actually gets read: the first step towards your new dream job. Here we go!
Tip #1:
Clarity, clarity, clarity
A recruiter wants to scan your CV quickly to form an opinion on whether you are a suitable candidate. Help them along like this:
- Use clear headings such as Education, Experience, Skills, Languages, Other.
- Write in reverse chronological order: start with what you do today and work backwards.
- Want to make it even easier for your reader? Use a bullet list to highlight what makes you a good candidate for this specific job and put it at the very top of your CV, for example under the heading Five quick facts about me.
“I don’t want to have to search for what the person does today. It should be obvious.”— Ellinor Hellberg, Talent Manager at Oddwork
Tip #2:
Use keywords
Read the job ad carefully. Pick out the keywords used to describe the skills, experience and abilities they are looking for. Use those keywords in your own CV to catch the recruiter’s attention. It is an easy way to tailor your CV to the job you are applying for.
Tip #3:
Ask someone to read it
Spelling mistakes are a shame and do not make a good first impression. Send your CV to someone who can read it through; there is always something that can be adjusted or improved.
Bonus tip!
Some Swedish trade unions (for example Unionen) offer free CV reviews for members, where you can send in your application and get professional feedback within five working days.
Tip #4:
Keep it short
Keep your CV to one page. It gives the recruiter a good overview and lowers the threshold for them to look at your whole application.
Tip #5:
Skip the clichés
Juggling many balls and the spider in the web may be vivid descriptions of a certain ability, but to a recruiter who reads many CVs a day, they are just empty words. Instead, give real examples from your life of how you, for instance, handle several things at once. Much more credible and authentic.
Good luck with your CV!
Ready for a new job?
Looking for your next job? See open positions via Oddwork or read what recruiters look for.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about CVs
How long should a CV be?
Usually one to two pages. The most important things should be visible right away on the first page.
Should I include a photo in my CV?
It is optional in Sweden. If you include one, choose a clear and professional photo.
How do I adapt my CV to AI and recruitment systems?
Use the keywords from the ad, simple headings and avoid tables and graphics. Read more in how to write a CV that AI likes.
